The Lavon Affair remains a stain on Israel’s intelligence record and a lesson for Israeli leaders today. The end of this month, January 31, will mark seventy-one years since Egypt’s execution of Israeli agent Moshe Marzouk and six decades since his death resulted in an Israeli prime minister’s resignation. Why do both anniversaries remain acutely…
With Israel’s main enemies significantly downgraded, the failure to assert our sovereignty poses the greatest threat to Israel’s long term survival. At first glance, the tragic death of the Haredi teenager Yosef Eisenthal during an anti-government demonstration in Jerusalem last week seemed totally unconnected to the shooting, by Israel police, of a Bedouin man, Muhammad…
Maduro’s capture is outstanding news for the democratic world. President Trump’s audacious action in capturing Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro in downtown Caracas and airlifting him to prison in America is outstanding news for the democratic world and especially for Israel. The operation follows many years that the United States turned its back on South America.…
2025 was a year of war–in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran. It was a year of loss and trauma but also of victory and, for the hostages, redemption. 2026 promises to be a pivotal year of breakthroughs in relations with several of Israel’s long-term foes. Beyond that, 2026 for Israel could be a year of recovery,…
Rather than a departure from standard practice, recent actions by the United States continue its longstanding commitment to protect vulnerable religious communities abroad. President Trump’s decision to intervene militarily to defend Christians from ISIS attacks in Nigeria has been criticized by left and the right-wing commentators alike. Progressives denounced the operation as the product of…
Netanyahu and Trump’s pivotal meeting in a critical moment. Though it will take place in better circumstances than his previous five visits to the White House this year, Netanyahu’s forthcoming meeting at Mar-a-Lago with President Trump might well be the most crucial. On the agenda are issues that are likely to prove pivotal to Israel’s…
Mein Kulturkampf Clarity with Michael Oren, February 5, 2024 “I have only one passion, that of light, in the name of humanity which has suffered so much and which has the right to happiness.” So concluded J’Accuse, Emile Zola’s 1898 attack on the French judicial, military, and political establishment. His purpose was to expose the…
For many years—decades, even—of terrorist strikes and wars, Israel had been the most dangerous place for Jews. But is it still? Reflecting on the Bondi Beach massacre made me remember—perhaps strangely—a remark once made by my son, Noam, in his Bar Mitzvah speech. The year was 2003, the height of the Second Intifada, with hundreds…
Establishing a Palestinian state today, in the aftermath of October 7, is not only not in Israel’s interest but is, far beyond that, certifiably insane. Last Wednesday evening, December 3, in Toronto, I took part in a Munk Debate. For those unfamiliar with the institution, Munk defines its mission as “to help the world rediscover…
Ending Netanyahu’s corruption trial would mean an admission of guilt and could be the end of his political life. Back in 2019, while serving as a deputy government minister, I was approached outside a Knesset meeting by Yossi Yona, a former philosophy professor and member of the opposition Labor Party who I’d come to admire.…
I am stunned and profoundly saddened by the passing of my friend of many years, Senator Lindsey Graham. But far beyond our friendship, he was a steadfast friend of Israel and the Jewish people, a clear-eyed, courageous champion of truth and righteousness. We will always remember him and always be grateful. And may his memory be forever blessed.
Source: Clarity with Michael Oren (Substack note)
Geopolitical Analysis: Evolving Threats & Diplomatic Strategy Expert Insights by Ambassador Michael Oren | Vimeo Executive Summary In this insightful briefing, Ambassador Michael Oren evaluates the most pressing diplomatic challenges in the Middle East, shedding light on the intricacies of coalition building, the shifting dynamics of U.S. foreign policy, and the strategic imperatives required to…
World Israel Is Alarmed by Trump’s Deal With Iran Critics say the deal eases pressure on Tehran too soon, while others say it shows the war was a mistake. By Dov Lieber June 15, 2026 President Trump’s deal to wind down the war with Iran set off alarm bells in Israel, where top officials are…
Media Briefing: Strategic Defense & Regional Stability Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Vimeo Executive Summary In this analytical briefing, Ambassador Michael Oren evaluates the evolving security architecture in the Middle East, emphasizing the necessity of robust defensive postures and strategic diplomatic engagements to ensure long-term stability. Defensive Readiness: Assessing current military preparedness and the…
Media Briefing: Global Coalitions & Counter-Terrorism Strategies Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Vimeo Executive Summary In this strategic briefing, Ambassador Michael Oren dissects the formulation of global coalitions aimed at countering terrorism, emphasizing the necessity of unified international responses to asymmetric warfare. Asymmetric Threats: Identifying and mitigating the capabilities of non-state actors operating within…
Media Briefing: Navigating International Pressures & Domestic Security Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Vimeo Executive Summary In this briefing, Ambassador Michael Oren addresses the complexities of navigating international diplomatic pressures while safeguarding domestic security interests and maintaining historical alliances in a volatile region. International Relations: Balancing national sovereignty with the expectations and demands of…
Media Briefing: Strategic Alliances & Middle East Dynamics Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Vimeo Executive Summary In this in-depth briefing, Ambassador Michael Oren analyzes the current trajectory of Middle Eastern diplomacy, examining the impact of shifting alliances, regional security challenges, and the vital importance of U.S.-Israel relations in maintaining stability. Strategic Partnerships: Strengthening historical…
Media Briefing: Evolving Regional Threats & Diplomatic Strategy Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Vimeo Executive Summary In this comprehensive assessment, Ambassador Michael Oren evaluates the evolving security architecture in the Middle East, highlighting the critical nature of diplomatic relations and strategic defense alliances amidst escalating regional tensions. Diplomatic Strategy: Navigating the complexities of current…
Media Briefing: Strategic Outlook & Diplomatic Relations Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Vimeo Executive Summary In this briefing, Ambassador Michael Oren provides a comprehensive analysis of current geopolitical dynamics, addressing the critical intersection of diplomatic strategy, regional security challenges, and the ongoing trajectory of international alliances. Diplomatic Relations: Examining the evolving partnerships and strategic…
Media Briefing: Middle East Diplomacy and Security Challenges Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren Executive Summary In this insightful analysis, Ambassador Michael Oren evaluates the evolving security dynamics in the Middle East, examining the intersection of diplomatic negotiations, regional alliances, and necessary defense strategies required to maintain stability. Diplomatic Relations: Exploring the current state of U.S.-Israel…
Beyond the Precipice: A Hinge of History Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Commentary & Perspective Executive Summary In this comprehensive strategic evaluation, Ambassador Michael Oren outlines a permanent change in the geopolitical and social reality facing Israel and the global Jewish community. From the unprecedented military-intelligence shifts of October 7 to the structural shifts…
Interview Summary: Michael Oren on Fox News (May 1, 2026) Former Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren discusses the escalating regional tensions and the strategic challenges posed by Iran. Key Discussion Points: Preemptive Threats: Analysis of why Iran may take the first move as its regional proxies face increasing pressure. Nuclear Proliferation: The critical necessity of neutralizing…
Michael Oren argues that Iran is behaving irrationally in the current crisis, lying about its capabilities and using the Strait of Hormuz as leverage even as its own economy nears a breaking point, and he supports a tough U.S. and Israeli stance including the naval blockade as a way to “dry out” both the regime…
In this segment, Ambassador Michael Oren outlines Israel’s skeptical stance regarding the recent leadership transition in Iran. He emphasizes that a change in faces does not necessarily signal a shift in the regime’s core ideology, noting that the influence of the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) might even result in a more hardline, “military junta”…
The segment discusses controversy surrounding Abdul El-Sayed after leaked audio revealed his cautious response to the reported death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. El-Sayed emphasized sensitivity toward communities in Dearborn who might be affected and avoided celebrating the death, while also questioning the legality and justification of unilateral international actions. In response, Michael Oren…
econd issue. Was this about the President of the United States believing he needed to do this for his own and his country’s 00:00 interests, or was he talked into it by his buddy Bibi? Somebody who knows the answer to both, former Israeli 00:07 ambassador to the US, Mr. Michael Oren. I spent a…
Khamenei’s death can be traced back to Yahya Sinwar’s decision to launch the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, writes Michael Oren. (Illustration by The Free Press) Officially, at least, the war against Iran began on Saturday, February 28, at 1:15 a.m., Eastern Standard Time. In reality, though, Operation Epic Fury of the United States…
With new developments breaking on that front, we take you live to Tel Aviv and former Israeli ambassador to the U.S., Michael Oren. Ambassador, thank you for joining us. According to Iran’s state media, the senior Iranian cleric Javadi Amoli says that shedding the blood of Israelis and Trump is what is required of, quote,…
Michael Oren, speaking live from Tel Aviv, is interrupted by an active missile attack siren and confirms that missiles are incoming while his family shelters in a safe room, but he chooses to continue the interview. The host notes simultaneous reports of loud blasts in Dubai and mentions ongoing interceptions of Iranian missiles and drones…
Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the United States, joins CNN’s Kaitlan Collins for special coverage on Israel’s latest strikes against Iranian targets and the escalating regional conflict. He discusses Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stated intention to intensify military operations, the reported casualties from an Iranian missile near Jerusalem, and the broader strategic goal of…
Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the U.S., tells ABC News that the current strikes on Iran are, in his view, crucial for Israel’s security and also positive for the United States. He argues that Israel faces an existential threat from the Iranian regime, which has been in power since 1979 and, he says, openly calls for…
https://vimeo.com/1169187748/343118fc6b?share=copy n this clip, former Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren discusses U.S. military pressure on Iran, Israel’s recent military gains, and whether current diplomacy can lock in a lasting new order in the Middle East. Key points Oren explains that a single U.S. aircraft carrier with about 90 warplanes and accompanying destroyers is still limited against…
Friday, February 13, 2026 “Explaining the challenges of the war to the world has been difficult”: Michel Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the United States. The diplomat spoke with SEMANA and said his country is going through a complex crisis, yet at the same time its military and civil strength has never been clearer. By…
Episode Description October 7 didn’t just change Israel. It exposed the end of an era. In this episode of Echoes of Jewish History, I sit down with Ambassador Michael Oren—historian, former Israeli ambassador to the United States, IDF veteran, and one of Israel’s most consequential strategic thinkers—to map the world that is emerging in the…
https://vimeo.com/1150451003/844cc8ef4c?fl=ip&fe=ec Tensions between Iran and the US following Trump’s meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Key Points: Nuclear Concerns: The discussion centers on Iranian nuclear capabilities. While the US intelligence has not confirmed Iran’s missile or nuclear facility rebuilding, Israeli intelligence has suspected such activity—which is not unusual, as Israeli intelligence often detects developments before US…
Israeli Intelligence Alert: Michael Oren on Australia Security Warnings https://vimeo.com/1147078340/8423bdeacb?fl=ip&fe=ec Israeli intelligence warnings to Australia about security threats Guest: Michael Oren, Former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Segment Focus: The interview discusses Israeli intelligence’s warning to Australia regarding potential threats to the country. During the segment, Oren is discussing communications between governments, with references to the Canadian…
Munk Debate: “Face Off on a Two-State Resolution” Event: Munk Debate on the Two-State Solution Date: December 3, 2025 Location: Meridian Hall, Toronto, Canada Format: One of the most consequential mainstage debates in the 17-year history of the Munk Debates series Debate Motion: “Be it Resolved, it is in Israel’s national interest to support a two-state solution” Debaters: In…
Michael Oren (former Israeli diplomat) discusses on BBC World News a world leaders’ summit in Egypt during the Trump administration. He explains Trump’s “20-point plan” backed by Israel, which includes: ceasefire in Gaza, hostage restoration, regional stability, and Israeli-Palestinian peace aligned with the Abraham Accords. Oren emphasizes that addressing Islamic extremism and various types of…
https://vimeo.com/1127550310/53e0685335?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci This MSNBC interview segment from October 15, 2025, features Ana Cabrera interviewing Michael Oren, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, about the fragile Middle East peace plan and recent developments regarding Israel and Hamas. Key Discussion Points: Peace Plan Status: Cabrera and Oren discuss “Israel, Hamas Accuse Each Other of Violating Peace Plan,” with the…
This Fox News “America Reports” segment from October 14, 2025, features an interview with Michael Oren, former Israeli Ambassador to the United States, discussing recent hostage releases and the Middle East situation. Key Topics Covered: Hostage Recovery: The interview focuses on “Freed Hostages Recovering in Tel Aviv Hospital,” noting that the first phase of a peace…
The video features Michael Oren, a former Israeli ambassador to the United States and historian, appearing on NewsNation’s “Elizabeth Vargas Reports” on October 23, 2025. Hosted by Elizabeth Vargas, the 11-minute interview discusses ongoing Middle East tensions, focusing on Israel’s perspectives amid regional conflicts. Oren addresses international reactions to recent Israeli actions, emphasizing the challenges…
This CNN segment from October 13, 2025, titled “Michael Oren Appears on CNN’s ‘The Source'” features Michael Oren, former Israeli Ambassador to the United States, discussing President Trump’s declaration that “the war in Gaza is over” and the peace agreement’s progress. Trump’s Announcement and Peace Plan: The interview opens with breaking news of Trump declaring…
Michael Oren Appears on NBC News’ ‘Meet the Press Now’ (10.9.25) https://vimeo.com/1126000723/
Growing up as the only Jewish kid in an Irish and Italian neighborhood, and then later as an Israeli soldier and diplomat, I experienced many different forms of antisemitism. I’ve gone from being labeled a Christ-killer to a money grubber to a child murderer. But I’ve never in my many years encountered anything like today’s…
Michael Oren Appears on CNN Newsroom (7.19.25)
Israel Strikes Iran June 13, 2025 Bari Weiss 51M Naftali Bennett and Michael Oren break down Israel’s attack on multiple sites across Iran. View all episodes In the early Friday morning hours, Israel launched a series of strikes on Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, defense operations, and the leadership of the Revolutionary Guard. Hours later, I…
This article was published on ynetnews.com. May 5,2025. The state created in 1948 to ensure that the Jewish people would never again have to rely on anybody else for our security has repeatedly outsourced its security to others. The results have always been disastrous. In the 1950s, we outsourced our security to UN peacekeepers in…
This article was published on ynetnews.com. Opinion: As tensions rise between the Israeli Air Force and Southern Command over Gaza operations, deeper societal divides—ethnic, economic, and political—threaten national unity at a time when it’s needed most. In the midst of a desperate war and on the eve of Memorial Day, a deep schism…
Our delegation of northern Israel residents met with senior White House officials who reassured us that the administration is doing everything in its power to achieve a cessation of hostilities that would enable displaced Israelis to return to their homes. Senator @SenRickScott has been steadfast in his support for the State of Israel. Since October 7th,…
The announcement Friday night that IDF troops had shot and killed three Israelis who had managed to escape Hamas captivity, pitched the nation into a despondency it had not known since October 7.
This war doesn’t end with an iconic photo of desert fighters gathered around a makeshift flagpole in Eilat and hoisting a hand-painted Israeli pennant.
Years of U.S. appeasement have failed. It’s time for a dramatic change of course.
It is clear beyond any doubt that Israel cannot agree to a ceasefire. A ceasefire means a victory for Hamas, which will immediately begin planning its next terrorist attack.
FBI Director’s warning that Hamas could inspire an attack in the US is a “very real threat”, says former Israeli ambassador to the US Michael Oren.
On Nov. 2, I had a wide-ranging conversation with former Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., Michael Oren. We talked about his lifelong service to Israel, what he’s learned over the years, and how he is communicating about the current war against Hamas. The interview has been edited for clarity and length. — M.G.
Former Israeli ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren details ground operations expanding from the IDF
Hatred of Israel cannot be distinguished from hatred of the Jewish people. Incontestably now, anti-Zionism is antisemitism.
“We have removed with our own hand our most powerful weapon—the enemy’s fear of us. We have the power…but if we give in…we have opened the door to Israel’s destruction.”
The Lavon Affair remains a stain on Israel’s intelligence record and a lesson for Israeli…
With Israel’s main enemies significantly downgraded, the failure to assert our sovereignty poses the greatest…
Maduro’s capture is outstanding news for the democratic world. President Trump’s audacious action in capturing…
Rather than a departure from standard practice, recent actions by the United States continue its…
Netanyahu and Trump’s pivotal meeting in a critical moment. Though it will take place in…
Mein Kulturkampf Clarity with Michael Oren, February 5, 2024 “I have only one passion, that…
For many years—decades, even—of terrorist strikes and wars, Israel had been the most dangerous place…
Establishing a Palestinian state today, in the aftermath of October 7, is not only not…
Ending Netanyahu’s corruption trial would mean an admission of guilt and could be the end…
Media Briefing: Diplomatic Frameworks & Regional Deterrence Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Vimeo Executive…
Media Briefing: U.S.-Iran Agreement & Regional Deterrence Analysis by Ambassador Michael Oren | Bloomberg Balance…
